Culture Shock

Every expatriate has to find a way to create a new life in a new culture. When it doesn't go well for any number of reasons, expats often experience "Culture Shock." Please share some of your experiences adapting to a new culture after moving overseas.

Which country are you reporting about?

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Which country are you a citizen of?

What is your gender?

FemaleMale

Did you receive any cross-cultural training for your move abroad? If yes, was it before or after the move?

If they speak another language in your new country, do you speak the language? If yes, did you learn the language before you moved or while abroad? If no, are you planning to learn the language?

Were you worried or concerned about culture shock before you moved abroad?

How significant was the culture shock you experienced when you moved abroad?

Expats often talk about going through the "stages of culture shock." Examples include the honeymoon phase, the irritation-to-anger stage, the rejection of the culture stage, and the cultural adjustment phase. Do you feel like you went through these or any other stages as you settled into the new culture?

What, if any, were some of the changes you noticed in yourself that might have been caused by culture shock? These might include things such as anger, depression, anxiety, increased eating or drinking, frustration, homesickness, etc.

What are some things you appreciate most about the new culture?

What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?

Did you "commit" any embarrassing or humorous cultural blunders? If you did and you'd like to share them, please do tell!

Do you have any advice or thoughts about culture shock you would like to share?